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International
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New entry requirements for Japan
By November 23, 2007, the Japanese government will begin requiring all foreign visitors to be fingerprinted, photographed, and interviewed by immigration officials at Japanese airport customs offices before gaining access into the country. These changes are part of an amendment to the country’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.
The Japanese government has stated that these new requirements are intended to prevent terrorists, illegal immigrants, and foreign criminals from entering the country, thus protecting Japanese citizens and tourists.
Those who decline to have their fingerprints and photograph taken will be denied access into Japan. However, the following segments of the traveling population are exempt from the new requirements:
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Persons under the age of 16;
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Special status permanent residents; and
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Those performing actions which would be performed by those with a status of resident, diplomat or official government business
Driving abroad: conduct research to improve safety
While simply taking a cab or riding on the subway is often sufficient for getting around once at their destination, many business travelers, especially those traveling abroad, at some point will find it necessary to rent a car and attempt to navigate local roads and highways very different from those back home.
Unfortunately, the number one killer of Americans in foreign countries is motor vehicle crashes. “The road safety problem worldwide for travelers and locals constitutes a growing public health crisis,” said Tony Bliss, lead road safety specialist for the World Bank.
While foreign roads will always be somewhat unfamiliar to North American citizens, a little pre-trip, destination research can go a long way to helping travelers prepare. Before going abroad, travelers should check in with their organization’s corporate travel department for insight about the particular country. The following resources will also prove useful:
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The U.S. State Department’s Consular Information Sheets are available for any country and include pertinent local information, including specific driving and road condition details. They also provide addresses and emergency telephone numbers for U.S. embassies and consulates. While this resource does not explicitly give advice, it provides information to enable travelers to make informed decisions.
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Additionally, the State Department offers useful insights and tips for driving abroad.
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The American Automobile Association offers information and applications for obtaining International Driving Permits.
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Driving Abroad offers country-specific driving laws and enforcement procedures on several countries including Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Poland.
Sources: ABC News, USA TODAY, U.S. State Department
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